Actor Manoj is creating quite a ripple in the world of Kannada films even before the release of his first movie as a leading man. Manoj is the nephew of ‘D-Boss’ Darshan and director Dinakar Toogudheepa.
Watching Manoj stand next to Darshan during the promotion of his film, you just cannot miss the young six-footer's uncanny resemblance to his uncle.
Manoj now forays on screen as a leading man with the film Takkar . The film is almost ready for release and the young actor has none other than Darshan backing him.
Takkar is produced under the banner SLN Creations and Manoj is joined by television personality Ranjini Raghavan as the female lead.
Manoj is not new to acting. He has shared the screen earlier with Darshan in films such as Ambareesha and Chakravarthy where he plays the antagonist.
Manoj is excited about Takkar . “This is a dream début. The film is about a crime in cyberspace and how my character cracks it,” shares Manoj who earlier worked as an assistant director.
Admitting to always being in awe of Darshan, Manoj says. “I have watched him at work and even shared the screen with him. Yet, when he stands next to me on stage to promote my film, I am so excited that I cannot even stand straight. He may be my uncle but on screen he is such a huge star and I am humbled that he is taking time to promote my work. Just having him stand next to me is like having a huge pillar of strength by my side.”
Ask him about the lessons he has learnt from Darshan and Manoj replies, “When he first met the producer of Takkar , he told me ‘the man seems to be passionate about making films. Give your heart and soul so people like him can survive in the industry. Do not be slack in your work and waste his money and you will see blessings flow into your life.’ That was such a great lesson that I learnt and hope to follow through.”
The other life lesson Manoj got from Darshan is “he told me I will not be welcomed with a red carpet just because I am related to him. It is hardwork and talent that counts here.”
Takkar is directed by Raghu Shastry, known for films such as Run Anthony, which featured Vinay Rajkumar in the lead.
Manoj also has a word of praise for his director, whom he says he met on the sets of Dinakar’s film Life Jothe Ondu Selfie. Shastry wrote dialogues for the film. “That is when he had narrated the story of Takkar to me, which both my uncles liked.”
Manoj describes the film as a thriller. “Today everyone is online. And it is no secret that one is prone to online harassment. The film takes off on how a man stalks women online, which also leads to certain crimes.”
The film is produced by Nagesh Kogilu, who had earlier produced the film Huliraya .
Takkar has music by Manikanth Kadri and William David of Rangitaranga fame is the cinematographer.
“If all goes well we look for a release next month,” Manoj says with a smile.
